Battle of the Bamboo 2017: Manobo Tribe

In this portrayal of the Manobo Tribe’s daily life and religious ceremonies, we begin our tale with the lurking of malignant wood spirits. They explore their dwelling until they are surprised by the sound of harvesting villagers trespassing into their land.

Without realizing the presence of the spirits, the villagers begin their rice harvest. The spirits approach the villagers, as they are angered by their disruptive harvest and make their presence known. The harvesters run away frightened, calling for help from the warriors of the village.

Not far behind, all but two of the spirits chase them down. The Manobo Tribe warriors arrive and see that there are only two spirits to fight. They fight and little by little, rest of the spirits come back and the warriors realize that they are outnumbered and overpowered.

The spirits win and take away their lead warrior by transforming him into a spirit as well. They leave the rest of the warriors bruised and battered.

This ceremonial dance is important to the Manobo Tribe because it is used for healing of the people, warding off spirits, and also to celebrate a bountiful harvest, thanking the Kindred Spirits who helped them.